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Focal Sopra N°2 Loudspeaker Review
Focal, a highly respected French manufacturer of high-fidelity audio equipment, has been a mainstay in the audiophile world since its inception in 1979. Renowned for their innovation and precision, Focal’s loudspeakers are crafted in Saint-Étienne, France, and reflect the brand’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and superior acoustic performance. Positioned in the premium Sopra series, the Sopra N°2 bridges the gap between Focal’s entry-level Aria line and their flagship Utopia range. The Sopra N°2 is a mid-sized floorstanding speaker designed to deliver an uncompromising hi-fi experience while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic.
TL;DR
- Premium mid-sized floorstanding speaker in Focal’s Sopra range.
- Unique design with innovative acoustic technologies for superior sound.
- Balanced, detailed, and transparent sound with remarkable imaging.
- User feedback highlights wide soundstage and bass depth.
- Ideal for discerning audiophiles seeking modern aesthetics and high-end performance.
Design and Build
Focal is known for blending artistry and engineering, and the Sopra N°2 exemplifies this ethos. Available in a range of bold and elegant finishes, including Carrara White, Electric Orange, and Black Lacquer, this speaker is as much a design statement as it is an acoustic marvel. Its compact, curvy cabinet design minimizes diffraction, while the glass top panel and front baffle add a luxurious touch.
The build quality is impeccable, with the cabinet constructed using MDF for rigidity and to minimize unwanted vibrations. The “Neutral Inductance Circuit” (NIC) and “Infinite Horn Loading” (IHL) technologies are seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and acoustic excellence. The baffle features a tilted orientation for time alignment, which enhances soundstage coherence.
Attention to detail extends to the speaker’s base, which includes a robust aluminum stand for stability and optimized coupling to the floor. Thoughtful engineering is evident in every aspect, down to the magnetic grilles that preserve the speaker’s sleek appearance.
Technical Characteristics
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 3-way bass-reflex floorstanding speaker |
| Frequency Response | 34 Hz – 40 kHz (+/- 3 dB) |
| Sensitivity | 91 dB (2.83 V/1 m) |
| Nominal Impedance | 8 Ohms |
| Minimum Impedance | 3.1 Ohms |
| Recommended Amplifier Power | 40 – 300 W |
| Drivers | 1" Beryllium inverted dome tweeter, 6.5" midrange, dual 7" woofers |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 1190 x 358 x 540 mm |
| Weight | 55 kg |
Acoustic Performance
The acoustic performance of the Focal Sopra N°2 has been widely praised across professional reviews, with many lauding its balance of precision, warmth, and dynamics. The speaker’s 1-inch Beryllium inverted dome tweeter delivers remarkable detail and transparency in the high frequencies, reproducing even the most delicate nuances with ease. The midrange, managed by Focal’s "Tuned Mass Damper" (TMD) suspension, is lauded for its clarity and neutrality, allowing vocals and instruments to shine without coloration.
Bass performance is equally impressive, thanks to the dual 7-inch woofers, which combine depth and control. Reviewers from StereoNET and What Hi-Fi? have highlighted the speaker’s ability to produce tight, punchy bass that doesn’t overwhelm the overall tonal balance.
The Sopra N°2 excels in imaging and soundstage, creating a three-dimensional listening experience. According to Hi-Fi Choice, the speaker’s ability to render spatial cues and positioning is exceptional, making it a standout performer for orchestral music and live recordings.
Despite its high sensitivity (91 dB), the Sopra N°2 benefits from pairing with powerful, high-quality amplification to fully exploit its potential. This is particularly important for demanding classical and jazz recordings, where dynamic range and subtlety are paramount.
Users Feedback
User feedback on forums and social media is overwhelmingly positive. Many audiophiles praise the Sopra N°2 for its ability to handle a wide variety of musical genres with finesse. The speaker’s soundstage is often described as expansive, with pinpoint imaging that places instruments and vocals precisely within the listening space.
Bass performance is another highlight, with users applauding its depth and control. Some users on forums like AVForums and What Hi-Fi? recommend careful placement and room treatment to maximize performance, as the Sopra N°2’s bass can occasionally dominate in smaller, untreated rooms.
Aesthetics also draw admiration, with many users appreciating the speaker’s modern yet timeless design. The choice of finishes allows for customization to suit diverse interiors. On the downside, some users note that the Sopra N°2’s price point may be prohibitive for casual listeners, but most agree that the performance justifies the investment.
Conclusion
The Focal Sopra N°2 is a masterclass in high-end loudspeaker design. Combining cutting-edge technology with refined aesthetics, it delivers a level of performance that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. Its strengths lie in its balanced and detailed sound, expansive soundstage, and luxurious build quality. However, it requires careful pairing with high-quality amplification and thoughtful room placement to truly shine.
Ideal for medium to large rooms, the Sopra N°2 is a perfect choice for those seeking a loudspeaker capable of reproducing music with breathtaking accuracy and emotional engagement.
Alternatives
For those exploring other French-made high-end loudspeakers, here are some worthy alternatives in the same price bracket:
- Focal Kanta N°2: A slightly more affordable option with a warmer tonal balance and similar design aesthetics.
- Triangle Magellan Cello: Known for its lively sound and dynamic performance, ideal for classical and jazz enthusiasts.
- Cabasse Murano Alto: A compact floorstanding speaker with remarkable clarity and a modern design.
- Apertura Edena Evolution: Offers lush midrange performance and a natural, organic sound signature.
- Jean-Marie Reynaud Orfeo Jubilee: Renowned for its musicality and natural timbre, perfect for vocal-centric recordings.
